subtle marble lines define the layout of this medical center in braga, by martins architecture

portuguese martins architecture office has turned a nearly abandoned shop in braga, portugal, into a luminous, minimalistic oriental therapy center complemented by the richness of marble. conceived as a ‘box in a box’, the ‘performative bond’ project covers the space in white adding sophisticated elegant elements to the interior.

receptionall photos by NUDO

as one enters martins‘ shop, they immediately face the reception — an intimate space hidden behind a tasteful white-and-blue marble divider. the lightness of the space is completed by the natural hues of wooden chairs and the line of light breaking the strict perspective of the ceiling.

reception view from the shopping mall

the treatment spaces are entirely white, while their boundaries are highlighted by an unexpected detail — the plinth there is made of marble, too, flowing from the floor to the door frames. the only element standing out in this room is the sink — the metal bowl balances the contrast between the light fabric curtains and the stone skirting.